Are you struggling to find a comfortable position in your recliner? Maybe the back is too far reclined, and you can’t seem to figure out how to adjust it. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people have trouble figuring out how to take the back off a recliner. But don’t despair; it’s actually quite simple once you know how.
However, before you start, a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the recliner is unplugged from any power source. Second, clear away any obstacles around the recliner so that you have plenty of room to work. Finally, have a helper on hand to assist you in removing the back. Once you’ve taken these precautions, follow these steps to remove the back of your recliner in a breeze:
First, locate the release levers on the sides of the recliner. These levers are usually located near the bottom of the seat. Once you’ve found the levers, pull them up and simultaneously push the back of the recliner forward. The back should now be detached from the base of the recliner. If the back is still attached, check for any additional screws or bolts that may need to be removed. Once the back is completely detached, you can remove it from the room for cleaning or repair.
Locating the Release Lever
1. Manual Recliners
Manual recliners are typically operated with a lever, which is usually located on the right-hand side of the chair. To identify the lever, look for a small, inconspicuous handle or knob attached to the frame of the chair. The lever is usually recessed into the frame, so you may need to feel around for it. Once you find the lever, try to move it up or down. If the lever moves smoothly, it is most likely the release lever.
If you are unable to locate the release lever on the right-hand side of the chair, check the left-hand side. Some manual recliners have levers on both sides of the chair. The lever may also be located on the front or back of the chair. If you still cannot find the lever, consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
a. Identifying the Release Lever
| Manual Recliners | Electric Recliners |
|---|---|
| Located on the right-hand side, recessed into the frame | May be located on the side, front, or back of the chair |
b. Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble finding or using the release lever, try the following:
- Check both sides of the chair, as well as the front and back.
- Feel around for a recessed lever.
- Consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
Disengaging the Reclining Mechanism
The reclining mechanism of a recliner chair is typically designed to lock into place when the chair is reclined. This is to prevent the chair from accidentally collapsing when someone is sitting in it. However, there may be times when you need to disengage the reclining mechanism, such as when you want to move the chair or clean it.
The following steps will show you how to disengage the reclining mechanism on most recliner chairs:
- Locate the release lever or button on the side of the chair. This lever or button is usually located near the base of the chair, where the seat and back meet.
- Pull the release lever or button up or forward. This will release the lock that is holding the reclining mechanism in place.
- Once the lock is released, you can now recline or close the chair as desired.
Here is a table summarizing the steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the release lever or button on the side of the chair. |
| 2 | Pull the release lever or button up or forward to release the lock. |
| 3 | Recline or close the chair as desired. |
Releasing the Backrest
Locate the Release Lever
The release lever is typically located on the side or back of the recliner near the base of the backrest. Check both sides if it’s not visible on one. It may be a small, inconspicuous lever or a larger, more noticeable handle.
Push or Pull the Lever
Once you’ve identified the release lever, press or pull it firmly. The direction will vary depending on the specific design of your recliner. Some models require you to push the lever forward, while others have to be pulled backward.
Adjust the Backrest Angle
With the release lever engaged, carefully lower the backrest to the desired angle. You may need to use some force to overcome the resistance of the springs or gas cylinders. Hold the backrest in place as you release the lever to prevent it from snapping back.
Additional Tips for Adjusting the Backrest Angle
- Some recliners have multiple backrest positions. Experiment with the different positions to find the one that provides the most comfort and support.
- If you’re having difficulty adjusting the backrest angle, try using your feet to provide additional leverage. Place one foot on the floor and use the other to push against the backrest while pulling or pushing the release lever.
- Be careful not to over-extend the backrest, as this can damage the mechanism or cause the recliner to tip over.
- Make sure that the recliner is unplugged from the power outlet before you begin.
- Be careful not to pinch your fingers when you are folding the backrest down.
- If you have difficulty folding the backrest down, you can ask for help from a friend or family member.
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Locate the Reclining Mechanism: On the underside of the recliner, identify the reclining mechanism. It’s usually a metal lever or bar.
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Release the Reclining Mechanism: Pull or push the reclining mechanism to release the backrest. The direction varies depending on the recliner model.
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Lift the Backrest: Carefully lift the backrest away from the frame. Avoid sudden or forceful movements that could damage the fabric or upholstery.
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Disconnect the Wiring: Once the backrest is lifted, you may need to disconnect any wires or cables attached to it. These wires are typically connected to the power source for reclining or other functions.
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Remove Screws or Bolts: If there are any screws or bolts securing the backrest to the frame, remove them using the appropriate tools. Be sure to keep track of all the screws and bolts for reassembly later.
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Unclip the Upholstery: Most recliners have their upholstery attached to the frame using clips or plastic tabs. Gently pull or pry the upholstery loose from the backrest frame. Be careful not to tear the fabric or damage the clips.
- Inspect the recliner: Before attempting to remove the back, thoroughly inspect the recliner for any loose parts or damage. Ensure that it’s stable and securely positioned.
- Wear gloves: To protect your hands from sharp edges or splinters, wear a pair of sturdy work gloves.
- Work in a well-lit area: Good lighting allows you to see clearly and avoid potential hazards.
- Use appropriate tools: Choose the right tools for the job, such as a screwdriver, wrench, or pliers. Avoid using tools that are too big or too small.
- Disconnect from power: If the recliner is powered, unplug it before starting any disassembly.
- Avoid over-tightening: When assembling or tightening bolts, screws, or other components, avoid applying excessive force. This can damage the recliner or strip the threads.
- Support the weight: When removing the back, have someone assist you or use a support brace to prevent it from falling and causing injury.
- Keep children away: Ensure that children are not present during the disassembly process to avoid accidents.
- Dispose of waste properly: Once the back has been removed, dispose of any bolts, screws, or other hardware in a responsible manner.
- Seek professional help if needed: If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any aspect of the disassembly process, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from a qualified technician.
- Gather your tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, and a socket wrench.
- Unplug the recliner from the power source.
- Remove the screws that are holding the back of the recliner to the base.
- Carefully lift the back of the recliner off of the base.
- Set the back of the recliner on a flat surface.
- Remove the screws that are holding the fabric to the back of the recliner.
- Carefully remove the fabric from the back of the recliner.
- Inspect the foam padding for any damage. If the foam padding is damaged, you will need to replace it.
- Reattach the fabric to the back of the recliner.
- Reattach the back of the recliner to the base. Use the screws that you removed in step 3.
- Plug the recliner back into the power source.
- Vacuum the recliner regularly to remove dust and dirt.
- Wipe the recliner down with a damp cloth to clean it.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaners on the recliner.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the recliner regularly.
- Have the recliner inspected by a qualified technician every year.
- Locate the locking mechanism. This is usually a small lever or button located on the back of the recliner, near the top.
- Release the locking mechanism. Push or pull the lever or button to release the back of the recliner.
- Lift the back off the recliner. Once the locking mechanism is released, you should be able to lift the back of the recliner off the frame.
- Disconnect any wires or cables. If there are any wires or cables attached to the back of the recliner, you will need to disconnect them before you can completely remove the back.
- Remove the back of the recliner. Once the back is disconnected, you can remove it from the recliner frame.
| Recliner Type | Release Lever Location |
|---|---|
| Manual Recliner | Base of the backrest, usually on one side |
| Electric Recliner | On the armrest or side panel; may require a button or switch |
| Gas Cylinder Recliner | Base of the backrest, usually behind a decorative panel |
Folding the Backrest Down
To fold the backrest down, first locate the release lever. The lever is usually located on the side of the recliner, near the base of the backrest. Once you have found the release lever, pull it up or push it down to release the backrest. The backrest will then fold down smoothly.
If the backrest is not folding down easily, you may need to apply some pressure. Gently push down on the backrest while pulling up or pushing down on the release lever. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you could damage the recliner.
Once the backrest is fully folded down, you can secure it in place using the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is usually located on the underside of the backrest. To lock the backrest in place, simply push it up until it clicks into place.
Here are some additional tips for folding the backrest down:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the release lever. |
| 2 | Pull up or push down on the release lever. |
| 3 | Fold the backrest down. |
| 4 | Secure the backrest in place using the locking mechanism. |
Removing the Backrest
Unattaching the backrest from the recliner’s frame is a crucial step. Here’s a detailed guide:
Here’s a summary of the steps in a table for quick reference:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate and release the reclining mechanism |
| 2 | Lift the backrest |
| 3 | Disconnect any wiring |
| 4 | Remove screws or bolts |
| 5 | Unclip the upholstery |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Back won’t recline
Check if the reclining mechanism is engaged or if there is any obstruction preventing it from moving.
2. Back reclines too far
Adjust the tension knob or lever to increase resistance and prevent the back from reclining too far.
3. Back is unevenly reclined
Check if the reclining mechanism is balanced and if the legs are level. Adjust the legs as needed to level the back.
4. Back is stuck in the reclined position
Try shifting your weight forward and backward to dislodge it. If that doesn’t work, check for obstructions in the reclining mechanism.
5. Back won’t fully recline
Make sure the chair is fully open and that there are no obstructions underneath it. Check if the reclining mechanism is functioning properly.
6. Back creaks or squeaks while reclining
Apply a lubricant to the reclining mechanism to reduce friction and noise. Tighten any loose screws or bolts.
7. Recliner won’t lock into place
Check if the locking mechanism is engaged. Lubricate and adjust it as needed.
8. Recliner tips over when leaned back
Adjust the tension knob or lever to increase resistance. Ensure the recliner is placed on a level surface. Check if the legs are stable and evenly distributed.
Consider the following additional points:
| ○ | Ensure the room has enough space for the recliner to fully recline. |
|---|---|
| ○ | Don’t exceed the weight capacity of the recliner. |
| ○ | Regularly clean and lubricate the reclining mechanism. |
Safety Precautions
When handling heavy objects or working with tools, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some essential safety tips to follow:
How To Take The Back Off A Recliner
Tips for Maintaining a Recliner
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Vacuum | Weekly |
| Wipe down | Monthly |
| Lubricate | Every 6 months |
| Inspect | Annually |
How to Take the Back Off a Recliner
If you need to repair your recliner or simply want to clean it more thoroughly, you may need to remove the back. Most recliners have a removable back that can be taken off in a few simple steps.
People Also Ask
How do you fix a broken recliner back?
If your recliner back is broken, you may be able to fix it yourself. First, identify the type of break. If the break is in the frame, you will need to replace the frame. If the break is in the fabric, you can repair it with a sewing machine or by hand.
How do you clean a recliner back?
To clean a recliner back, you can use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth. If the back is heavily soiled, you may need to use a mild detergent solution. Be sure to rinse the back thoroughly with water after cleaning.
How do you replace a recliner back?
To replace a recliner back, simply follow the steps in reverse order of how you removed the back. First, connect any wires or cables to the back of the recliner. Then, lift the back onto the recliner frame and engage the locking mechanism. Finally, test the recliner to make sure it is working properly.
